Municipality of Tourist Interest
Animals of the Brazilian Fauna
Burrowing Owl
Nome Científico
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Nome Científico
Athene cunicularia
Características
The burrowing owl is a small to medium-sized owl, measuring about 20 to 28 cm in height. It has large, yellow eyes, a round, featherless head, and brown plumage with white spots, helping it to camouflage itself in its environment.
Ocorrência
This species is found throughout much of the Americas, from Canada to Patagonia, preferring open areas such as fields, pastures, and even urban areas. In Brazil, it is present in almost every state.
Comportamento
Unlike other owls, the burrowing owl is active during the day (diurnal), although it can also be seen hunting at night. It lives in burrows in the ground, often reusing burrows of other animals, such as armadillos, or digging its own. It is territorial and emits a variety of sounds to communicate.
Alimentação
Their diet is varied, including small mammals, insects, smaller birds, reptiles, and amphibians. They are opportunistic hunters and can capture their prey both in flight and on the ground.
Reprodução
The breeding season varies by region, but generally occurs in the spring. Females lay 6 to 11 eggs, which are incubated for about 28 to 30 days. Both parents care for the chicks, which leave the nest after about 6 weeks.
Preservação
The burrowing owl is not currently endangered, but it faces challenges such as habitat destruction and pesticide use. Urbanization also affects its populations, although some adapt to urban environments.
Curiosidades
It is called "burrowing owl" because of its habit of living in burrows in the ground.
They emit a sound that resembles a bark, which they use to scare away predators and warn other owls of danger.